Quarry owner says swimmers still trespassing

A distressed kayaker who was rescued days ago and dozens of swimmers who are taking a dip or a dive at the Monroe Township quarry lake still are trespassing, its owner says.

Bill Gross, owner of the lake at S. Dixie Hwy. and E. Dunbar Rd., said plans to create a park avail­able to the public are still mov­ing forward but no one legally is allowed on the property unless they live there or have permis­sion from homeowners.

Swimmers, mostly young adults, often frequent the quarry lake, which has become even more accessible since fencing has been removed during the park construction.

Monroe County sheriff’s Maj. Jeff Kemp said there is not much law enforcement can do at this point.

“ The problem is it’s impossible for us to police,” Maj. Kemp said. “ We try to enforce it as much as we can. There’s not a lot we can do.”

Maj. Kemp said too few deputies and priorities for service are preventing them from enforcing trespassing laws at the quarry.

“ The issue is manpower,” Maj. Kemp said.

Maj. Kemp said one solution to the trespassing issue could include the owner hiring a deputy, much like other organizations for festivals and fairs.

Mr. Gross said machinery has been present at the site to prepare it for a public park. The plans call for volleyball courts, a restroom building and large decks from where swimmers could jump off. Visitors would pay a fee and a lifeguard would be on duty. The idea is to control the visitors instead of trying to shoo them away.

Mr. Gross said while progress is moving forward, he is not sure if the park can be completed for this summer.

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